01
Track what you notice
Note communication, play, sensory responses, routines, strengths, and situations that are difficult.
Early Signs & First Concerns →
Stage 2 of 14
Stage 2 of 14
Diagnosis and Identification
Understand evaluations, reports, diagnoses, and different paths to identification across childhood and adulthood.
Navigating this stage
What may matter at this stage
Explore the areas that fit what you are navigating now.
01Track what you notice+
Note communication, play, sensory responses, routines, strengths, and situations that are difficult.
Early Signs & First Concerns →02Ask about screening or referral+
Ask what developmental screening is available, whether a referral is appropriate, and what the expected wait may be.
Screenings & Referrals →03Prepare for evaluation+
Gather school notes, previous reports, medical history, examples of concerns, and questions you want answered.
Evaluation Process →04Support daily needs now+
Adjust communication, routines, sensory environments, and transitions based on what is helping or causing difficulty.
Learning Center →05Check practical support options+
Review insurance, financial help, and local assistance if cost or access is making support harder to reach.
06Learn from other families+
Read experiences from families who have navigated early concerns, screening, referrals, and evaluation.
Explore what fits your needs
Resources connected to this stage
Explore the resources that fit what you need right now.
ResourceMember
The Evaluation Process
Prepare for what may happen before, during, and after an evaluation.
ResourceMember
Understanding Results
Review reports, recommendations, test results, and common questions after an evaluation.
ResourceMember
After Diagnosis
Organize next steps, services, supports, and decisions after receiving results.
MapPublic + member
Autism-Friendly Map
Find autism-friendly places, local services, and recommendations shared by the community.
Looking ahead
A diagnosis can open doors to understanding and services, but it does not define the limits of a person’s future.